Westerly Seahawk 35 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

Under sail, the Seahawk 35 is a predictable and stiff performer, a characteristic attributed to its high ballast-to-displacement ratio of 40.8%. With a displacement-to-length (D/L) ratio of 318, it is firmly categorized as a heavy-displacement cruiser. This weight provides a purposeful, "sea-kindly" motion in a seaway, making it less prone to the erratic motion found in lighter contemporary designs.

The boat was typically rigged as a masthead sloop with lines led aft to the safety of the center cockpit, facilitating shorthanded sailing. According to Yachting Monthly, the Dubois-designed hull handles impressively well for a boat of its beam, maintaining good directional stability thanks to its deep fin keel and spade rudder. While it is not a light-airs flyer, owner accounts from sea trials frequently highlight its ability to point remarkably high into the wind once the breeze freshens. A twin-keel (bilge keel) version was also produced, which allows the vessel to take the ground in tidal estuaries without significantly sacrificing its ability to "power through" heavy weather.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The hallmark of the Seahawk 35 is its cavernous interior, made possible by a maximum beam of 12' 6" that is carried well aft. The center-cockpit configuration allows for a private, full-width aft cabin that features a large double berth, a corner settee, and its own vanity unit. This "owner’s" space is accessed via a walkthrough that generally contains a generous galley on the port side, featuring twin sinks and ample workspace.

The main saloon is bright and airy, often finished in teak or ash joinery. It features a U-shaped dinette to starboard and a straight settee to port, both of which can serve as additional berths. Unlike many 35-footers of the era, the Seahawk offers genuine standing headroom throughout the vessel. Variations in the layout are rare, though later versions of the hull, such as the Oceanquest 35, introduced a revised galley position and different head configurations. Sibling models built on this same 34-foot hull include the aft-cockpit Falcon 34 and 35, the motor-sailing Riviera 35, and the later Oceandream.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should prioritize a few model-specific technical areas during a survey. The most frequent cosmetic and structural complaint is the "Westerly Droop," a condition where the foam backing of the vinyl headlining degrades over time, causing the material to sag. While this is a labor-intensive fix, it is widely documented within the owner community.

Mechanical inspections should focus on the original Volvo Penta MD2003 engine, specifically the splines on the gearbox-to-engine coupling, which are prone to wear if not properly maintained. Additionally, as with many GRP vessels of this vintage, the hull should be checked for signs of osmosis, though Westerly's build quality in this era was generally high. The spade rudder should be inspected for bearing wear or play, and the teak rubbing strake should be checked for secure fastening and sealant integrity to prevent deck leaks.

Community & Resources

The Seahawk 35 is supported by one of the most robust owner organizations in the maritime world. The Westerly Owners Association provides an exhaustive archive of technical manuals, original brochures, and a collective knowledge base for maintenance and upgrades. This community is a vital resource for sourcing specific replacement parts and advice on structural repairs like the headlining or engine refits.

The Verdict

The Westerly Seahawk 35 is a robust, "belt-and-braces" cruiser that prioritizes interior volume and safety over racing performance. It is an ideal platform for a family looking to transition from coastal hopping to cross-channel or blue-water passage making.

Pros:

• Massive interior volume with a standout private aft cabin.
• Stiff, stable sailing characteristics suitable for heavy weather.
• Center-cockpit design provides a high, dry, and safe helm position.
• Strong support through the Westerly Owners Association.

Cons:

• "Westerly Droop" headlining issues are almost universal in original boats.
• Heavy displacement makes it sluggish in light winds.
• Higher cockpit profile creates more windage when maneuvering in tight marinas.